Category Archives: News

Safety improvement project on SR 169 will impact drivers next week

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The Arizona Department of Transportation continues work next week on a safety improvement project on State Route 169 which includes a new left-turn lane at Cherry Creek Road (milepost 9.3) and Orme Road (milepost 4.5).

As a result, drivers will be restricted to one lane at both intersections for chip seal and shoulder work as part of the project.

Starting on Monday (June 6) through Thursday (June 9), drivers will be guided through the work zone with a pilot car and flaggers between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Delays of up to 15 minutes are expected.

ADOT advises drivers to proceed through the work zone with caution, slow down, and be alert for construction equipment and personnel. The speed limit through the work zone will be 45 mph until the project is complete.

ADOT works to inform the public about planned highway restrictions, but there is a possibility that unscheduled closures or restrictions may occur. Weather can also affect a project schedule. To stay up-to-date with the latest highway conditions around the state, visit the ADOT Traveler Information Center at www.az511.gov or call 5-1-1.

Game and Fish officers euthanize bear that clawed camper

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PHOENIX — Arizona Game and Fish Department officers last night trapped and euthanized a black bear that had scratched and injured a camper earlier in the day in a dispersed camping area (not a developed campground) near Cherry Creek in Young, Ariz.

The subadult (1-1/2 to 2-1/2 year-old) male bear was caught in a culvert trap set by a highly trained team of wildlife officers. They confirmed this was the bear involved in the incident based on descriptions from other campers and because it had a unique hind paw pad that matched tracks found at the scene. The bear was euthanized per department policy because it attacked a human and was deemed a threat to public safety.

Officers noted there were unsecured food sources and garbage in the area, and a field necropsy revealed garbage in the bear’s stomach contents. Arizona Game and Fish reminds everyone that leaving food and trash around may be luring an animal to its death.

“We need the public’s help to keep wildlife wild,” said Dustin Darveau, a wildlife specialist in the Game and Fish Mesa region. “The root cause of most human-bear conflicts is food, and when a bear starts associating people with food, the chance for conflict and risk to public safety rises. Though the cause of the problem is usually people, often it’s the bear that must face the consequences.”

Game and Fish is continuing trapping operations today because campers told officers that multiple bears had raided food sources in the camp area over the Memorial Day weekend and did not fully retreat when bear spray was used. The campers did not notify officials of this bear activity, vacate the area, or remove the food sources after the sightings. The area is now closed during the trapping operation and until further notice.

The camper injured in the incident was treated at a local hospital and released.

The department asks that any nuisance bear activity be reported to Game and Fish or local officials and recommends that all campers take a few simple precautions to protect both people and bears, including securing all potential food sources. Campsite food sources can include uncleaned BBQs, used plates, discarded wrappers, food stores and pet food. Bears have a very keen sense of smell – approximately seven times better than a bloodhound and 100 times better than a human.

Take these immediate steps to minimize bear encounters and keep wildlife wild:

  • Keep a clean camp. Store food items and trash well away from your tent or sleeping area. Even an empty food wrapper can attract a bear from a long distance.
  • Wash up before going to bed to eliminate odors.
  • Put food waste and garbage in a secure location such as a bear-proof dumpster.
  • Carry bear spray.
  • Encourage others to take these precautions. Discouraging bears from a campground requires everyone do their part.


If you encounter a bear, try to scare the bear away by making yourself look as large as possible, making loud noises, and throwing objects at it. Do not run. In the rare event of a black bear attack, fight back aggressively and use bear spray.

Arizona has had one fatal bear attack, which occurred in Pinetop in 2011. However, there are numerous reports each year of bears in close proximity to humans that could lead to serious injury or even death.

AZGFD hosts free training for ATV Safety Week

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Safety_course_3_-_reducedPHOENIX — The Arizona Game and Fish Department and the ATV Safety Institute will join forces to promote off-highway vehicle (OHV) safety as part of ATV Safety Week, which runs from June 3-12.

To help mark the occasion, the two organizations will offer a free hands-on ATV safety courses at 8 a.m. Saturday, June 11 at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility at 4044 W. Black Canyon Blvd. in Phoenix. In addition, AZGFD will hold two  Quail Kids youth-based education classes from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. June 6 and 10.

“Regardless of how long you’ve been riding an off-highway vehicle, taking a safety course can be a great way to get updated on safe use, law changes and other OHV-related information,” said Matt Eberhart, AZGFD OHV Safety Education coordinator. “OHVs offer many Arizonan’s access to some of the best views and experiences in the country. While they can offer good fun, these machines can also be dangerous if operators are not educated on proper and safe use.. Our free courses will provide the basic skills needed to make sure a day on the trail is memorable for the right reasons.”

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, 92 percent of all ATV-related fatalities are the result of warned-against behaviors, such as youth riding on adult-sized ATVs. The public is invited to take some time during ATV Safety Week to learn about the proper operation of OHVs, find out about helmets and other proper protective gear, and learn ways to dramatically reduce risk to themselves, their family and friends.

“We invite everyone with an ATV to take the first step toward safe riding by taking an ASI RiderCourse,” said Cam Arnold, vice president for rider training at ATV Safety Institute. “Come out to your local range, meet with instructors, have some fun and learn. ATV Safety Week is all about learning riding safety and we can think of no better way to highlight that message than to offer our class at no charge.”

Those wishing to take the free hands-on course can register by calling (800) 887-2887.

All hands-on courses are for riders 16 years and older. Riders must provide their own ATV and proper riding equipment, including:

  • DOT-approved helmet
  • Riding goggles
  • Long sleeves
  • Gloves
  • Long pants
  • Over-the-ankle boots

AZGFD will also offer free Quail Kids courses, which focuses on teaching riders 10 and older the importance of safe and ethical use, proper safety equipment and machine size and fit. To register, click here.

For additional information or questions about ATV Safety week, course offerings and online courses, call 623-236-7384 or visit www.azgfd.com/Education/OHV.

Bert Fire continues steady growth while improving forest health

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WILLIAMS — The lightning caused Bert Fire continues to be active and is being allowed to burn naturally to improve forest health on the Williams Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest. At more than 213 acres in size, the fire is growing steadily while providing significant resource benefits, and fire managers anticipate that trend will continue given the drier weather pattern in place.

“The Bert Fire is doing exactly what we hoped it would,” said Quentin Johnson, incident commander for the Bert Fire. “It is backing through forest that needs to burn within the historic fire return interval. This frequency of fire on the landscape helps maintain a healthy environment, and we are seeing the kinds of effects we want. The fire is cleaning up accumulated fuels and improving the overall condition of the forest.”

Today, crews will continue with preparation work that will include securing Highway 180. A burn out operation will likely occur south of the highway over the next two days and will be visible from the corridor. A burn out operation is used to create a safe “blackline” which is effective in stopping the advance of an approaching fire and keeping it within a designated area. Motorists are asked to use additional caution when driving through the fire area and reduce speeds when appropriate.

As the Bert Fire continues its steady growth, smoke will be more obvious from surrounding areas. While smoke has largely been pushed toward the southeast away from developed areas, it is likely that increasing fire activity will lead to a more noticeable column over the coming days.

Interstate 17 to close Friday morning between Flagstaff and Sedona

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PHOENIX — Interstate 17 is expected to be closed in both directions south of Flagstaff at 5 a.m. Friday, June 3.

The closure may last up to four hours.

Northbound traffic will be closed at State Route 179 (milepost 299). Southbound traffic will be closed at Kelly Canyon Road (milepost 331).

Non-commercial traffic can detour using State Route 89A.

Commercial vehicle drivers should consider altering their travel times to avoid being stuck due to the closure. Northbound commercial vehicles must wait in Camp Verde for the roadway to reopen. Southbound commercial vehicles will be required to wait at Fort Tuthill.

The closure is for police activity near I-17 at Newman Park where the Arizona Department of Public Safety will be safely disposing of hazardous materials that are best destroyed in place.

For the most current information about highway closures and restrictions statewide, visit ADOT’s Travel Information Site at www.az511.gov, follow us on Twitter (@ArizonaDOT) or call 511.

St. Joseph Catholic Church barbecue for St. Vincent de Paul

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St. Joseph Catholic Church is sponsoring a special BBQ meal this Friday (June 3rd), 6-8 pm to benefit St. Vincent de Paul. Come for Rich Gorney’s Legendary BBQ Ribs and Chicken served with Cole Slaw, Cowboy Beans, Bread, Dessert and Beverage, all for just $5.00 per person. St Joseph’s is located behind the Family Dollar store.

Fatal off-highway vehicle accident a reminder to practice OHV safety

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PHOENIX — The Arizona Game and Fish Department reminds all off-highway vehicle (OHV) drivers and passengers to ride safely by remembering to always wear a helmet.

The reminder comes after a 60-year-old grandfather died when the side-by-side OHV he was driving rolled off the side of a mountain near Lake Havasu City after 10 p.m. Tuesday, according to the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office. Neither the man nor his passenger, a juvenile who is the man’s grandson, were wearing helmets.

“Our condolences go out to the family,” said Matt Eberhart, AZGFD OHV Safety Education coordinator. “It is critically important for everyone to wear a helmet every time they ride an OHV. The sad reality is that many of these crashes are survivable, if only they were wearing a helmet.”

Helmets are required by law for all riders under the age of 18 regardless of the off-highway vehicle type. They are also strongly recommended for all riders, regardless of age. In addition, riders should remember to:

  • Wear a seat belt at all times, if equipped.
  • Wear riding goggles, a long-sleeved shirt, pants, riding gloves and over-the-ankle boots.
  • Never ride alone.
  • Be prepared and equipped with a map, a first aid kit, whistle and have basic tools on hand.
  • Stay on designated trails.
  • Take an OHV safety education course designed to teach off-road motorists how to ride safely and responsibly.

For more information about the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s OHV program and safety course options, visit www.azgfd.gov/ohv.

Bear claws camper near Cherry Creek in Young

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PHOENIX — A man in his 20s was injured early this morning when a bear scratched him through his sleeping bag in a dispersed camping area near Cherry Creek in Young, Ariz.

The bear was investigating the man’s camp and was thought to have injured the man when the animal pawed at the sleeping bag. Bear spray was used and the animal retreated.

The man was seen at a local hospital and released.

Based on the injuries and description, Arizona Game and Fish Department officers believe the bear was small and possibly young.

The camp area is used by the Anasazi Foundation as part of its program. After the incident, other campers and Anasazi members advised Game and Fish officers that several bears had been seen in the campground area over the Memorial Day weekend. At least three different bears were identified by the campers as coming into camp and raiding food sources, and not fully retreating when bear spray was used. Campers did not notify officials of this bear activity, vacate the area or remove the food sources after the sightings.

Arizona Game and Fish has a highly-trained team investigating the situation and will set traps in the vicinity to attempt to capture the offending bears. The department also will work with the Tonto National Forest on possible area closures.

If the offending bear(s) is captured, it will be lethally removed because of the habituated behavior it demonstrated and the public safety threat it poses.

The department asks that any nuisance bear activity be immediately reported to Game and Fish or local officials and recommends that all campers take a few simple precautions to protect both people and bears, including securing all potential food sources. Campsite food sources can include uncleaned BBQs, used plates, discarded wrappers, food stores and pet food. Bears have a very keen sense of smell – approximately seven times better than a bloodhound and 100 times better than a human.

Take these immediate steps to minimize bear encounters and keep wildlife wild:

•    Keep a clean camp. Store food items and trash away from your tent or sleeping area. Even an empty food wrapper can attract a bear from a long distance.
•    Wash up before going to bed to eliminate odors.
•    Put food waste and garbage in a secure location such as a bear-proof dumpster.
•    Carry bear spray.
•    Encourage others to take these precautions. Discouraging bears from a campground requires everyone do their part.

If you encounter a bear, try to scare the bear away by making yourself look as large as possible, making loud noises and throwing objects towards it. Do not run. In the rare event of a black bear attack, fight back aggressively and use bear spray.

Arizona has had one fatal bear attack, which occurred in Pinetop in 2011. However, there are numerous reports each year of bears in close proximity to humans that could lead to serious injury or even death.

For more information or questions on living with bears and keeping wildlife wild, visit the department’s website at www.azgfd.gov/urbanwildlife.

Arizona’s Free Fishing Day means family fun

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PHOENIX — You can fish Arizona waters for free this Saturday, making this an ideal time to take the family out for some fun and relaxing outdoor recreation.

Arizona’s Free Fishing Day will be celebrated on June 4 this year as part of National Fishing and Boating Week, which runs June 4-12. This Saturday, no fishing licenses are required for persons fishing any public waters in Arizona.

“Whether you’re an experienced angler who wants to introduce a newcomer to the sport, or someone who’s always been interested but never took that next step, this is an ideal time to gather up some friends and family members and head out to your nearest community lake, or head up to the cooler country to fish a lake or stream,” said Nick Walter, editor of the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Weekly Fishing Report.

Remember that bag limits and other fishing regulations are in full effect and must be observed on Free Fishing Days. Kids under the age of 10 can fish for free all year long in Arizona, so this special fishing license exemption day means that the older kids and parents get a free pass for the day.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department will also sponsor some free fishing day clinics/events to give people the opportunity to try out this fun, family-oriented pastime. Loaner fishing rods, bait and instruction are provided for free at most of these venues.

Times and locations of the events are:

Saturday, June 4:

  • Lake Pleasant Regional Park, 41835 N. Castle Hot Springs Rd., Morristown, 7-10 a.m.
  • Goldwater Lake, 2900 S. Goldwater Lake Rd., Prescott, 9 a.m. 1- p.m. The Mora National Fish Hatchery in New Mexico will be providing retired Gila trout broodstock for the clinic, and there is potential to catch a world record Gila trout. The record is 3 pounds, 7 ounces caught by Bo Nelson from Frye Mesa Reservoir on March 19, 2011.
  • Deadhorse Ranch State Park, Cottonwood, middle lagoon, 8 a.m.-noon. Entrance fees for participants are waived during this time period only. Channel catfish will be stocked prior to the event.
  • Garrett Tank, approximately 12 miles east of Seligman off of Crookton Road, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Open to public. No signups.
  • Dogtown Lake, 1250 Pine Top Dr., Williams, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Saturday, June 11:

I-11 public comment period begins; six meetings planned for June

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PHOENIX — With six public meetings scheduled in June and an opportunity for the public to contribute in other ways, Arizonans can help shape the next step in planning for the proposed Interstate 11 as the Arizona Department of Transportation moves ahead on a three-year environmental study for a corridor stretching from Nogales to Wickenburg.

Planned as much more than a highway, I-11 is envisioned as a multimodal corridor connecting Arizona with regional and international markets while opening up new opportunities for mobility, trade, job growth and economic competitiveness.

ADOT has opened a 45-day comment period allowing Arizonans to provide input on the I-11 study area, a process known as public scoping. It’s an opportunity to ask questions and share comments about topics such as potential locations for the I-11 corridor, environmental considerations, impact on wildlife habitats or cultural resources, and possible opportunities for other transportation modes, such as rail, that may be considered.

“The progress on the Interstate 11 study shows ADOT’s commitment to establish a key border-to-border corridor and a trade route with Mexico that will continue our state’s efforts to boost commerce, job growth and economic development,” ADOT Director John Halikowski said. “We have the support of partner agencies throughout the study corridor who realize the benefits that I-11 can bring in terms of competitiveness, regional and global connections, and business opportunities through this new freight and travel route.”

The recommended I-11 corridor would likely follow US 93 from the Hoover Dam bypass bridge south to Wickenburg. The 280-mile corridor that is the focus of the current environmental study begins in Wickenburg and runs west of the Phoenix metropolitan area and then south to the Tucson area and then Nogales.

Publishing a Notice of Intent in the Federal Register, as required under the National Environmental Policy Act, kicks off the formal environmental study process, as ADOT works to prepare a Tier 1 Environmental Impact Statement to select an I-11 corridor alternative between Nogales and Wickenburg.

Six public meetings are scheduled in the study area:

Wednesday, June 8
Dorothy Powell Senior Adult Center – Dining Room
405 E. Sixth St.
Casa Grande

Wednesday, June 15
Buckeye Community Center – Multipurpose Room
201 E. Centre Ave.
Buckeye

Tuesday, June 21
Nogales High School – Cafeteria
1905 N. Apache Blvd.
Nogales

Wednesday, June 22
Arizona Riverpark Inn
777 W. Cushing St.
Tucson

Thursday, June 23
Marana Middle School – Gymnasium
11285 W. Grier Rd.
Marana

Wednesday, June 29
Wickenburg Community Center
160 N. Valentine St.
Wickenburg

All meetings run from 4 to 6:30 p.m., with presentations beginning at approximately 4:15 p.m. The same information will be presented at each meeting.

Those interested in commenting on the study but are unable to attend a public meeting are encouraged to visit the study website at i11study.com/Arizona and complete an online survey. All feedback, questions and comments will be considered part of the study, are entered into the project record and will help shape the proposed I-11 corridor.

In March, ADOT, in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration, launched the three-year study. Until now, a process called pre-scoping has included meetings with federal, state and local governments, resource agencies and planning organizations within the study corridor.

The first step in the study is developing an Alternatives Selection Report to assess a wide range of corridor alternatives and options, along with opportunities and constraints. A Draft Tier 1 Environmental Impact Statement will evaluate in greater detail a smaller number of corridor alternatives, including segments that may advance as independent improvements or projects. There will be a no-build alterative as well.

Input from the public, communities and other stakeholders will contribute to these two reports, as well as a Final Tier 1 Environmental Impact Statement that will list a selected corridor alternative.

In November 2014, the Arizona and Nevada departments of transportation completed a two-year feasibility study as the first step in the Interstate 11 process. In December 2015, Congress formally designated Interstate 11 from north to south in Arizona through the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act. While the designation doesn’t include funding, it does make the corridor eligible for federal funding in the future.

During the next three years, the public, communities and other stakeholders will have opportunities to comment through regular meetings, community events and other forums. Right now, comments can be sent to:

Online survey: i11study.com/Arizona/
Email: I-11ADOTStudy@hdrinc.com
Toll-free bilingual telephone hotline: 1-844-544-8049
Mail:

Interstate 11 Tier 1 EIS Study Team
c/o ADOT Communications
1655 W. Jackson St., Mail Drop 126F
Phoenix, AZ 85007

For more information about the I-11 study, visit i11study.com/Arizona.